Chenelle Kruger Goyen, Ph.D.

Dr. Chenelle Kruger Goyen is a scholar-practitioner with over 20 years of lived experience in the U.S. higher education system. As a former elite international student-athlete and dual citizen of South Africa and the United States, she has dedicated her career to the intersection of academic excellence and athletic empowerment. Originally from South Africa, and a native Afrikaans speaker, Dr. Goyen was one of South Africa’s top-ranked junior tennis players, and she remains a committed advocate for the global student-athlete community.

Institutional Leadership

Dr. Goyen serves as the Associate Director of Admissions at the University of Georgia - for over 15 years. In this capacity, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the university community, evaluating and making admission decisions for both the general applicant pool and student-athletes. 

Research & Academic Focus

Dr. Goyen’s scholarly work explores how culture influence student success. Specifically, she researches the ways in which cultural shape the motivation for academic and athletic success within the Southeastern United States. This specialized insight provides a nuanced understanding of the social and competitive dynamics at play within the region's premier institutions.

Global Impact & The NCAA

A recognized expert in international student-athlete transitions, Dr. Goyen contributed her expertise to the publication of the NCAA International Student-Athlete Handbook (released August 2024). This first-of-its-kind resource serves as a definitive guide for incoming international student-athletes, their families, and coaches navigating collegiate careers in the U.S. 

Educational Foundation & Professional Experience

Dr. Goyen earned her Ph.D. in Kinesiology (Sport Management and Policy) from the University of Georgia. Her commitment to transformative education is further highlighted by her previous work at the prestigious Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls (OWLAG) in South Africa. At the Academy, she focused on empowering academically gifted girls from disadvantaged backgrounds, cultivating the next generation of global leaders through leadership and service. This experience, combined with her past work in the University of Georgia Athletic Department, underscores her dedication to helping students leverage their unique cultural identities.